Wilmington's 40 Under 40 Class of 2022: Trevor Todd
Age: 29
Birthplace: Wilmington
Employer: New Hanover County Schools
Job title: Third-grade teacher at Castle Hayne Elementary
Education: Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education from the University of North Carolina Wilmington.
What community and professional groups are you affiliated with? The North Carolina Azalea Festival, University of North Carolina Wilmington Alumni Association, and Scotts Hill Baptist Church.
What are your guiding principles? My guiding principle comes from a quote by a late educator Rita Person, "Every child deserves a champion, an adult who will never give up on them, who understands the power of connection, and insists that they become the best that they can possibly be." I want to be known as an educator who makes lifelong, meaningful connections with all students that I come in contact with. I want them to know that I will always be in their corner and will always believe in their dreams and aspirations. This belief impacts how I interact with all students and how I perform my job.
How do you volunteer your time in the community? I am currently volunteering with the North Carolina Azalea Festival on the parade committee as the volunteer coordinator for the event. I am also an active volunteer in my church, Scotts Hill Baptist, working with the children and youth ministries.
Who has helped you achieve success in your life and career? Many people have aided in my success in life and my career. To name a few is difficult, but these have had the biggest impact thus far. My family (especially my mom, dad, and grandparents), Dr. Jerry Zinner and Dr. Kathleen Schlichting (both professors from UNCW), and Megan Bradley, a previous coworker.
What goal would you like to accomplish before turning 40? I hope to obtain a master's degree in the field of education and my National Board for Professional Teaching Certification.
What's your favorite book? My favorite children's book is “Wonder” by RJ Palacio and my favorite professional book is “The Wild Card” by Hope King and Wade King.
What are your hobbies? I enjoy spending time with my family, watching documentaries, going to the beach, running and eating tacos.
What's your most prized possession? My most prized possession is my collection of over 250 bow ties.
If you had a theme song for your life, what would it be? “You’ve Got a Friend in Me” from “Toy Story” by Randy Newman
This article originally appeared on Wilmington StarNews: Wilmington's 40 Under 40: Trevor Todd
